Shaq Lawson feels 'better than ever' upon return to Bills practice

Shaq Lawson feels 'better than ever' upon return to Bills practice

When the Buffalo Bills selected outside linebacker Shaq Lawson with the 19th overall pick in the 2016 NFL draft, Bills fans envisioned Lawson terrorizing quarterbacks across the NFL from the first moment he stepped on the field. Unfortunately for the team and its fans, Lawson aggravated a pre-existing shoulder injury and had to undergo surgery before training camp even started.

On Wednesday, Lawson set foot on the practice field for the first time with his surgically-repaired shoulder.

Shaq Lawson: "I'm happy. It's been a long journey and I'm happy to be back on the field with my teammates. I feel great, better than ever." pic.twitter.com/qwEgfZ2df2

The idea that Lawson feels better than ever seems ridiculous, considering his college career. He appeared in 40 career games at Clemson, amassing 123 total tackles, 45.5 for a loss, 20 sacks, and one forced fumble.

I was good with just one arm throughout my college career. Now with my other shoulder stronger maybe I can be a dominant player,” he said. “Through the whole rehab I’d tell myself, ‘When you get a 100 percent Shaq, it’s going to look a whole lot better out there.’

As for the Bills, they have the luxury of not being forced to rush Lawson back on the field. His replacement, outside linebacker Lorenzo Alexander leads the NFL in sacks (eight) and should hold onto his starting role while Buffalo eases their rookie into the starting lineup.